It is indeed a Lightning Time. John Brown of Osawatomie is travelling among abolitionist supporters in Massachusetts, raising money for his fighters back in Kansas Territory. Theodore Worth is 14, a Quaker, and quite taken with the thrilling drama Brown outlines for his audience. Theodore’s father is much less impressed, but agrees to shelter Brown briefly – until he can be moved to another safe-house. Brown is, after all, a wanted man. Surprisingly, the Worth family is quite taken with their guest, though not completely convinced that the violence in Kansas is justifiable. Later, while visiting Ohio, Theodore is witness to an event which convinces him that Brown’s violence is not only justifiable, but necessary. Theodore defies his parents and joins Brown’s “Invisibles” as they prepare to carry out the still-secret plan.
But Brown has changed since his visit with the Worth family, and the bit-by-bit revelation of his master plan is unnerving, as his “Invisibles” hide and drill in preparation for a confrontation. Theodore, gaining insight, realizes with growing trepidation the complexities of unleashing great violence to propel change, even for a just cause. A timeless dilemma, as we know.
Rees has written a moving, historically accurate coming-of- age story, illustrating the great moral dilemma presented by Brown’s plans for insurrection. And it’s well worth the read just to keep us thinking…